Baghdad: The 27th Baghdad International Book Fair, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, showcased a unique blend of art and literature through the participation of the Department of Public Arts. The event featured a diverse array of books, crafts, and folk arts, complemented by several art exhibitions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Mazen Al-Saffar, Director of Media for the Department of Public Arts, highlighted that the Department’s presence at the fair included works by students from the Institute of Crafts and Folk Arts. The students exhibited their skills in sculpture, ceramics, metalwork, carpets, and traditional carpentry, all of which celebrate and reflect Iraqi heritage.

Adnan Saddam Juwaid, Director of the Institute, noted that the pavilion offered handcrafted and heritage items produced by both students and local artisans. The pavilion also featured a rest area for visitors and a sales outlet, which aimed to promote Iraqi folk art and support the revival of traditional crafts.

Atika Mohammed Saeed, Head of the Ceramics Department, mentioned that the participation involved works from seven different departments. The exhibition displayed handmade items in copper, wood, and ceramics, all available for purchase by visitors.

On the sidelines of the main event, “Shido Decor,” the artistic sponsor of the exhibition, organized the “A Painting for Every Book” event within the “Artists’ Alley.” This initiative saw the participation of approximately 100 visual artists, selected from over 400 applicants, further enriching the cultural experience at the fair.